Little progress in Papua shooting probe, says Amnesty

The Indonesia researcher for Amnesty International says there is little sign of progress being made in the investigation into five students who were killed by the military in West Papua.

In December, security forces opened fire on about 800 protesters gathered outside a police station in the town.

Five people were killed, and at least 17 others -- including children -- were injured.

Josef Benedict says three investigations were launched and the President, Joko Widodo, condemned the shootings.

Photo: Amnesty International

However, he says little progress has been made since then.

"We know that there have been investigations initiated by the authorities, but again we are concerned that those investigations will again be swept under the carpet like many other investigations, leaving the victims without any access to reparations or justice."

Josef Benedict says international pressure needs to be put on Jakarta, and a more independent investigation is needed into the shooting, as currently the military and police are investigating the military and police.